Chapter 1 - A night at the Electric Labyrinth

Tony raises an eyebrow. "These people you refer to pay the club and you get, I'm sure, a great a great salary for it, but that's not tax-free, in your pocket. Two grand, cash money. What do you say?"

Tony hands the cash over and wanders into the VIP area. He starts scanning around to see if he can find any of the others. He spots Max talking to a stunningly beautiful woman in an neatly-cut white dress. He approaches but stands back, watching their interaction discretely.

Tony scans the magnificent crowd, taking in the presence of politicians, artists, business folks, lawyers, and the offspring of millionaires. His gaze lands on Ravenheart, Anika Kessler, a vision of elegance with her divine curves and striking features. Memories of their shared past in Nexus flicker in his mind, recalling her enchanting presence as a kid tempered by occasional batshit erratic behavior. However, whatever Nexus did to her seems to have only enhanced her grace and beauty. She is definitely the most beautiful Asian woman he has ever seen.

Raven's sudden appearance in NYC, especially with Dr. Miriam Montagne also in town, feels too coincidental to ignore. Anika didn't escape with Max, Charlie and the others before, therefore she must have leave Nexus labs later in unknown circumstance. He is not sure if she is friendly, enemy or neither at this point.

Disguised and unnoticed by Anika, Tony observes her from afar as she stands in the front row, seemingly oblivious to those attempting to engage her in conversation.

"Huh," Tony says quietly.

C. Bevin:

Heads up. Anika's here. yeah. that Anika. VIP section.

Seo-ah's lips curve into a graceful smile, her eyes gleaming with intrigue at Maximilian's charm. She feels a subtle warmth wash over her as he repeats her name, a touch that resonates deeper than mere words.

"Maximillian," she echoes, savoring the way her name rolls off his tongue. His confident demeanor draws her in, and she finds herself drawn to his magnetic presence. As his warm gaze meets hers, she senses a subtle connection forming between them.

"Enchanting? You flatter me, Maximillian."

"Indeed, it's a delight to encounter someone who appreciates refinement in a sea of... less refined individuals," she remarks, casting a discreet glance at the eclectic crowd. "As for my presence here, I find myself drawn to the allure of artistry and expression. And what about you, Maximillian? What brings a gentleman of your caliber to such an event?"

" But in all honesty, a colleague gave me his VIP access today, he couldn't make it. First night out in a long long time. I'd love to make the most of it. " The older lady said.

Maximilian senses Seo-ah's genuine interest in him, and he's confident that his natural charm has won her over. He doesn't feel the need to rely on his powers to captivate her; the connection between them feels effortless and genuine. He can tell she's intrigued by his youthful charisma, and she relishes the opportunity to fulfill her fantasy of being with a charming, younger bright-eyed gentleman tonight.

As he continues to engage with Seo-ah, Maximilian notices a hint of longing in her gaze, as if she's been searching for someone like him. He understands that she's accustomed to being pursued by others, but none have left an impression quite like him tonight.

Tony wanders around a little bit while trying to keep a discrete eye on Anika, curious what she's doing here, how she got out of the labs. Part of him wonders if she ever actually escaped and whether she might be here on behalf of Nexus.

Finally he catches sight of Tav and her friends sitting at one of the tables. He wanders close by and links his mind with Tav's.

'Hey sis, thought I'd find you here. Don't want to interrupt, but wanted to let you know I'm around. How are you?'

Tony is keeping an eye on the young lady. As Anika stands in the front row, absorbing the energy of the crowd and the anticipation of the show, she feels a tap on her shoulder. Turning slightly, she sees two handsome artists that seem loaded, their eyes glinting with mischief.

"Darling, I'm Bradley, we've been admiring you from afar, " one of them says with a charming smile, reaching out to lightly touch her shoulder.

"Call me George, we would love for you to join us for a nightcap and some stimulating conversation," the other adds, his hand lingering on her back.

Anika's expression remains composed, but her demeanor shifts subtly as she withdraws from their touch. "I'm afraid I have other plans for the evening, " she replies politely, her voice firm.

Undeterred, the men persist. But they respectfully keep their hands for themselves since the lady rejected them.

Selvie returns Tav's affectionate gesture with a warm smile, her eyes bright with excitement for the show to start. She intertwines her fingers with Tav's, reciprocating the squeeze as a sign of their close bond.

"Me too, I'm getting impatient, " Selvie responds, her voice filled with anticipation. "I've been counting down the days for this show."

Marcel, standing nearby, chuckles softly at their interaction, his eyes scanning the venue with a mix of curiosity and amusement. "Patience, ladies. The anticipation only adds to the excitement of the performance," he remarks.

Selvie nods in agreement, though her impatience is evident as she steals another glance towards the stage, eager for the show to begin.

"Back and to your left. Came incognito, due to Cam's message. Would come up, but don't wanna spook your friends. Enjoy the show!"

If she looks back he gives Tav a little wave.